Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Mix'
Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Perennial
Height
36 inches
Width
24 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate
Humidity
Low to moderate
Lifespan
Perennial
Native To
South Africa
Toxicity
Non-toxic to pets and humans
The Story
Plant Bio
Kniphofia uvaria, commonly known as Red Hot Poker, produces vibrant, tubular flowers that are attractive to pollinators. It thrives in sunny locations and is known for its drought tolerance. The 'Mix' cultivar offers a variety of colors in its blooms, creating a striking visual effect in the garden.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Tuck seeds into well-draining soil in early spring for best germination.
- Mist cuttings lightly and keep soil moist until roots develop, about 6 weeks.
- Plant young bulbs in spring, spacing 12-18 inches apart for room to grow.
- Ensure the plant receives full sun for optimal flowering and growth.
- Water regularly during the growing season, especially in dry spells.
- Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring and mid-summer for vigorous growth.
Pro Tip
Mulch around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, especially in hot climates.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water deeply once a week during dry periods 🌱
- Deadhead spent flowers to encourage more blooms
- Divide clumps every 3-4 years to maintain vigor
- Plant in full sun for best flowering
Don't
- Avoid overwatering to prevent root rot ❌
- Don’t plant in heavy, waterlogged clay soil
- Refrain from fertilizing late in the season to prevent weak growth
- Don’t disturb the roots during the growing season
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Deadhead | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup | ||||||||||||
| Winter Prep |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Red Hot Poker questions
What zones can Red Hot Poker grow in?
Red Hot Poker is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Red Hot Poker deer resistant?
Yes — Red Hot Poker is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Red Hot Poker bloom?
Red Hot Poker typically blooms in late summer through early fall. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Red Hot Poker need full sun?
Red Hot Poker does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Red Hot Poker drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Red Hot Poker handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Kniphofia to compare
Flamenco Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Flamenco'
Border Ballet Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Border Ballet'
Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria
Fairyland Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Fairyland Hybrids'
Gold Rush Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Gold Rush'
Alcazar Red Hot Poker
Kniphofia uvaria 'Alcazar'
Keep exploring
Explore the genus
Collections featuring this plant
Hardy in your zone?
Grow Red Hot Poker with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
